Genetic variability and selection criteria of some sesame genotypes for their agronomic traits and seed quality

The identification of genetic variation, mean performance, and selection criteria for twelve sesame genotypes is required for the genetic enhancement of agronomic traits and seed quality. Thus, using a randomized complete block design with three replications, these genotypes were evaluated in a field trial at the Kafr-El-Hamam Agricultural Research Station, Agricultural Research Center, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt, and laboratory experiments at the Seed Technology Research Department, ARC, Giza, Egypt, during the two consecutive seasons of 2018 and 2019. For earliness in flowering, N.A.130 and Shandweel3 were the most promising sesame genotypes, while N.A.114 and RH1F3 had the heaviest weight of seed plant-1 and one or more yield-related traits, and NA114, Shandweel3, and Zahar12 had the best seed quality traits. Furthermore, Shandweel3 and M1A12 had the highest proportion of seed oil, Shandweel3 and Zahar12 had the largest amount of oleic acid, N.A.114 and RH1F3 had the highest content of linoleic acid, and Zahar12 and N.A.114 had the highest proportion of linolenic acid. Seed weight plant-1 can be improved through selecting genotypes having the lengthiest fruiting zone, more branches and capsules, and the high electrical values of seed conductivity, accelerated aging germination as demonstrated by selection criteria. Moreover, the oleic acid proportion had the greatest direct and indirect effect on seed oil content, demonstrating its relevance as sesame oil quality selection criteria.